Arisaema consanguineum (Himalayan Cobra Lily)

Exotic-looking Arisaema consanguineum (Himalayan Cobra Lily) is a tall tuberous perennial boasting an impressive umbrella-shaped leaf with 11-20 narrow leaflets on a long, robust stem. Emerging in spring to early summer, the foliage resembles a palm tree leaf and remains attractive during the growing season. Borne along the leaf stem in late spring to midsummer, unusual flowers consisting of a dark, purple-brown hooded spathe, 6-8 in. long (15-20 cm), marked with delicate green and white stripes, are on display. They are followed by striking bright orange-red seed pods in late summer to early fall. A welcome addition to the shade garden, Himalayan Cobra Lily is easy to grow and requires very little care.

• Grows up to 3 ft. tall (90 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm).
• Easily grown in humus-rich, moist, but well-drained soils in partial shade. Tubers must not dry out when dormant and may need winter protection in colder areas.
• Best left undisturbed in the shady woodland garden, cottage garden, or city garden. Plant in groups of a dozen or more.
• Virtually disease free. Keep an eye out for slugs and vine weevils.
• Propagate by seed, sowing them in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring, or remove offsets in late summer.
• Native to Bhutan, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Taiwan, and Thailand. Arisaema consanguineum is a variable species. Although plants from the Himalayas are pretty hardy, those from Thailand, for example, need glasshouse protection. It is, therefore, important to know the origin of the plant before purchasing it.
• Ingestion may cause severe discomfort